The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has pledged to respect the outcome of last week’s general election, while urging the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to address concerns over alleged irregularities in the vote-counting process.
Speaking at a press conference in Lilongwe on Sunday, MCP vice-presidential candidate Vitumbiko Mumba said the party has full confidence in the commission’s ability to deliver credible results.
“The ability to declare the legitimate winner is in the hands of the MEC and we trust the commission to ensure transparency and fairness,” Mr. Mumba said.
He added that the party has formally raised its concerns about aspects of the counting process and expects them to be addressed in accordance with the law. Mr. Mumba also warned that any proven instances of electoral fraud would be treated seriously, with appropriate action taken against those responsible.
The remarks come as the nation awaits the final results of the September 16 elections, which saw Malawians vote for the president, members of parliament, and local councilors. Provisional results released by the MEC on Sunday showed former President Peter Mutharika of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leading incumbent Lazarus Chakwera.
The election was largely seen as a contest between Mutharika, 85, and Chakwera, 70, representing Malawi’s two dominant political parties. Mutharika, president from 2014 to 2020, campaigned on economic recovery and infrastructure development, while Chakwera, who came to power following a court-ordered re-run in 2020, faced criticism over corruption cases and ongoing economic challenges.
The MEC has until September 24 to announce the full provisional results. Officials have warned candidates against prematurely declaring victory, assuring the public that all tally reports are being thoroughly checked for accuracy. Under Malawi’s electoral law, a candidate must secure more than 50% of valid votes to avoid a run-off.
Meanwhile, DPP Chief Electoral Officer Jean Mathanga also praised the MEC’s conduct, expressing confidence that the final results will reflect the will of the Malawian people.
The 2025 elections represent a crucial test for Malawi’s democratic institutions, following the annulment of the 2019 presidential poll due to widespread irregularities, which ultimately led to the historic 2020 re-run that brought Chakwera to power.
About The Author
